Laura Kole is a social studies teacher who is ready to tackle obstacles that hamper student learning. She teaches Virginia & United States History, Advanced placement (AP) Government, and AP Psychology at Indian River High School in Chesapeake, Virginia. Her classroom instruction includes kinesthetic continuums, geographical analysis, collaborative projects, presentations, storytelling, and often uses music like Meghan Trainor’s You Lie Lie Lie! during brain breaks. She believes student success underlines her planning choices. When instruction is the subject Kole’s energy explodes! That energy is contagious as her students have opportunities to engage in academic conversations and refine their evaluations of historical figures and events. She believes, it is important that students make a connection to content. For an example, one of the most memorable experiences she “holds onto” happened when students recognized her appreciation for Langston Hughes’ 1945 poem I Too Sing America. The ensuing discussion focused on their common cultural traits. Kole never wants to forget that education is more than SOL material. She believes “there is so much more to teach our students” than the scope of the textbook. Her goals include creating an environment where students will challenge themselves and appreciate the “sacrifices” our predecessors made to expand the rights of Americans. Laura has taught for nine years as a social studies teacher, but believes she can do more. She has provided numerous in-services on technology and AVID strategies to her colleagues. She is a volleyball coach, sponsors the National Honor Society, serves as a school representative on the District Staff Development Council as well as serving as the 504 chairperson in her building. Finally, she is hoping to work with her department to launch a Saturday Study Blitz to during SOL review days which will not only help with assessments, but will boost student confidence.

Spotlight written by,Lychellia CheeksSupervisor High School Social Studies